Mass. Senate race focusing on abortion issue

US Senator Scott Brown is reinforcing his image as strong supporter of abortion rights — a message that's being potentially undercut by advocates on both sides of the issue.

The Associated Press

BOSTON — U.S. Sen. Scott Brown is reinforcing his image as strong supporter of abortion rights — a message that's being potentially undercut by advocates on both sides of the issue.

After fellow Republican Senate candidate Todd Akin claimed women's bodies can prevent pregnancies in cases of "legitimate rape," Brown immediately called for him to drop out and urged the Republican National Committee to accept differing views on abortion.

Despite his support of abortion rights, Brown has won the backing of Massachusetts Citizens for Life, the state's largest anti-abortion group.

At the same time groups that support abortion rights, including NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts, say Brown's record shows he's not a trustworthy defender of women's access to abortion.

A spokeswoman for Brown's Democratic rival Elizabeth Warren said she believes women should have access to the full range of reproductive health care options.